“Pride in the Park” brought a sense of community to Moscow on Saturday Aug. 24. The event, held in East City Park and organized by Inland Oasis, a local volunteer-based group, featured vendors and live performances by drag star Jason Mimosa and the Cold Rail Blues Band. The festival aimed to be inclusive, welcoming not just adults but also younger people who identify as LGBTQIA+ or are allies.
Attendees enjoyed a peaceful environment where they could express pride in their identities. The event attracted a diverse crowd including both LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies. Ben Lechner, a senior at the University of Idaho and ally of the community, said, “It’s good to raise awareness especially with being yourself.”
Individuality is a key theme of Pride, and the event was seen emphasizing that through its welcoming atmosphere.
Notable vendors and sponsors included the Latah County Democrats, the United Church of Moscow, the University of Idaho LGBTQIA+ Office, CHAS Health, the Moscow Human Rights Commission and several small businesses. Kathy Dawes, a candidate for a seat in the Idaho House of Representatives, attended to discuss her campaign. The Free Mom Hugs group offered hugs and smiles to attendees who needed them. Various stands provided free water and fruit to keep everyone hydrated and bubble machines added to the festive atmosphere.
The celebration of Pride traces its origins to the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City when police wrongfully arrested employees and patrons of a gay club sparking a riot led by transgender women of color Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. This event was a catalyst for the gay rights movement that continues today. Moscow, Idaho, held its first Pride festival in 1993 and despite the state’s conservative stance and frequent introduction of anti-LGBTQ bills, towns like Moscow have worked to keep Pride accessible to all.
“Pride in the Park” successfully united the local community and university in celebrating individuality in a peaceful setting. For the LGBTQIA+ community in Idaho, where the political climate can often be challenging, events like this continue to serve as important spaces for expression and support.
“Pride in the Park” was a community enjoyed event that brought locals and the university together to celebrate individuality in a peaceful environment. The Pride parade is a popular event in the community and word is already spreading to ensure next year’s celebration.
Loki Walters can be reached at [email protected]